The Week on Forum: Grocery triggers, state worker furloughs, and historic buildings

After last week's throwback edition, Forons have redirected their attention the present, discussing everything from recent political movements to cool tech gadgets. Of course, some flew under the radar, reminding us all of the Dr. Spocks and Mrs. Pac Men of yore.

I think the point was that "Atlas Shrugged" is seen as some sort of proof that socialism is the most evil thing on the planet. As part of a whole, perhaps using a work of fiction to illustrate a point would be fine, but if you can't point to any non-fiction examples then your point seems rather inane.

My proof that lightsabers are kickass weapons is that Luke Skywalker was so good with one.

It was a little unfortunate that these announcements came one day after State Employee Recognition Day thank you, thank you, now take a 5% pay cut (but only 3% in year two). Since very few public employees outside of SWIB make over $300,000, at least they won't be hit with an income tax increase. The fear of raising taxes on those below an income of $300,000 substantially excludes them from the responsibility of a democratically-functioning government, placing the majority of the pain in bad times on those who perform the functions of government, but not those ultimately responsible for the functions chosen by government the "people." A bit cowardly, irresponsible and politically expedient, this was not what the Governor likes to refer to as "making the hard choices."

Lots of cokehead hate on that yelp thread. I've been to Scatz once for an afternoon burger, a little pricey but it was good. It seemed like a coverband bar not much different than the Dry Bean or the Badger Bowl (as far as entertainment selection). The bar itself seemed cleaner than those spots, though. Lots of TVs, pool tables and the sound equipment looked new. Although, I wouldn't go out there for drink or 5 (because a cab ride from Middleton to downtown is a bit pricey and long) if I lived on the west side it could make for an interesting evening.

I have to differ with you on this. I don't think it's fair to pin the occupancy and general condition of older property stock downtown on the inspectors.

I think that my company (Fiore Cos.) has one of the finest property management teams around. Our properties are known to be well-maintained. Still, we hear from the inspectors now and then - and I know it is not once every six years. My impression is also that they are fairly particular. Probably every single family home in the isthmus would have a long list of required actions if subject to such inspections.

The article described market forces that led to the multi-family conversions in the Central City after WWII. Market forces continue to determine the feasibility of turning back the clock on these older buildings. Of course, government policy can have a significant force of its own!

But I think the original question is a great one: what does it mean to be "historic?" Most people recognize the importance of preserving certain significant buildings. The debate begins around those properties that may provide historic context, but on an individual basis are not particularly well-designed or significant.

Some people are inclined to throw a blanket over the central city and lock all existing buildings into place. But I believe that we need to be thoughtful about letting Madison continue to grow and evolve. Everything is historic from some perspective. So let's be careful about what actually is worthy of preservation.

This is just my two cents... I'm not at all familiar with the particulars of the Matty development or the existing housing in question.

Most people are voluntarily using multiple devices that can be used to track your movements and habits. Debit/credit cards, I-pass, cell phone. No matter where we are, my girlfriend can pull out her iphone and it can pinpoint our location. I'm sure we're not the only ones who can pinpoint our location, or at least the phone's. The push is on for everyone to get their own chip for "medical information". No thanks. I'll take my chances.